For many families, decorating the Christmas tree is a tradition steeped in nostalgia. More than decorations, these cherished pieces embody family history and the holiday spirit. Since 2010, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort has endeavored to be part of these moments with its custom-made ornaments to celebrate Christmas at the Princess, its annual transformation into a winter wonderland complete with an ice skating rink, rides, holiday treats, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a cast of characters including Graham the S’more, Shivers the Yeti, Peppermint Penguin and Twinkles, Santa’s brightest light bulb. The Princess team collaborates with the ornament’s producers, sharing their annual theme and the characters they want to feature, according to director of public relations John Glynn. In the 13 years since Christmas at the Princess launched, these ornaments have become beloved keepsakes for guests, symbolizing the magical experience the Princess offers year after year.
Photography by Angelina Aragon
2017
This year saw the introduction of two new characters, Graham the S’more and Shivers the Yeti, who have since become “cherished Christmas companions” in the Princess’ holiday cast, Glynn says.
2018
All aboard! This year’s ornament celebrated the resort’s second Christmas with the Princess Express Train. The locomotive has become a signature attraction where you can chug around the resort and witness all the dazzling light displays.
2019
“We paid homage to the unique charm of our desert surroundings, capturing the essence of the incomparable experience of celebrating Christmas in the desert,” Glynn says of this cacti-backed ornament.
2020
The “centerpiece” of Christmas at the Princess is the resort’s four-story Christmas tree. “This iconic tree has become the focal point of our event, featured prominently in countless guest photographs each year,” Glynn says.
2021
Where to go next? This year’s ornament depicts the gang directing guests to the Princess’ new attractions, such as Twinkle Town and Winterland, “reflecting the continuous growth and enchantment of our event,” according to Glynn.
